Archaeologists investigate monumental Jandial D structure in Pakistan

Excavations in the Khanpur–Taxila region have uncovered substantial walls at an ancient site. Findings announced on October 9 leave the monument’s purpose unresolved.

Jandial D measures approximately 100 metres long and 50 metres wide. It stands opposite the Ionic temple of Jandial, beyond the fortified ancient city of Sirkap. Dawn, citing a project announcement, reported that the building’s scale offers a new opportunity to study the historic Gandhara region.

Alexander Cunningham first recorded the site in 1864, but it remained largely unexplored for more than a century. Excavations beginning in mid-August 2026 exposed substantial walls. Researchers are still investigating whether the building served a public or religious function.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s archaeology department is conducting the work through Khyber PATH. Italian archaeologist Luca M. Olivieri directs the project, with funding from the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation. The Italian Archaeological Mission of Ca’ Foscari University of Venice works alongside the regional Directorate General of Archaeology and Museums. ISCOS provides financial and logistical support.

Regional archaeology director Abdul Samad emphasised the need to protect sites threatened by expanding urban development. Olivieri said the monument’s size and location raised fresh questions about Sirkap’s ancient landscape.

Khyber PATH has worked for a year at eight sites stretching from Swat to Khanpur–Taxila. Its activities include investigating and conserving the fortifications at Sirsukh and research at Bazira/Barikot, which is on UNESCO’s Tentative List.